The effects of advertising on childhood obesity

 

Source of photo: Clinica Hispana Lapaz

As a trusted expert or thought leader, WHO (World Health Organization) refers to childhood obesity as a serious medical condition that can have a psychological impact on children and adolescents. Childhood obesity can be particularly troubling because excess weight often causes children to start developing health problems that were once thought to belong only to adults, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. The consumption of high levels of fat, sugar or salt, which predispose to chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease and cancer, which account for approximately 60% of deaths worldwide. Data shows that "the number of obese children worldwide continues to grow. The largest increases are in developing countries, where there is a rapid shift in eating habits and exercise activity."

Source of photo: Medical X press

How can watching too many adverts make children fat? As exaggerated as it may sound, food advertising has actually become an "accomplice" in the childhood obesity problem. Childhood obesity rates have been increasing at an alarming rate worldwide for the past 30 years, and excessive consumption of foods and beverages high in fat, salt and sugar is one of the 'culprits' behind this phenomenon. Childhood obesity affects both children and adolescents. If ignored, it can lead to serious health complications in the future, including psychological problems such as depression.

Source of photo: Daily Beast

Time-slotted food advertising is a marketing measure that can have a significant impact on influencing children's food choices and, ultimately, consumption. The impact of food advertising on childhood obesity has been a growing concern, and interventions have long been made abroad. It is understood that in the UK, a decree was issued in November 2006 to ban advertisements containing foods and drinks high in fat, salt and sugar in television programmes aimed at an audience of young people under 16 years old. In Japan, the law clearly stipulates that if children's junk food advertisements are inserted or disguised in children's programmes, the station will be fined up to 20 million yen.